Be Happy, Get Hired: 5 Ways to Keep Positivity in Your Job Search

That's a weird question, but it's worth asking. After all, it can make all the difference in your job search.

It's not surprising that employers like to hire happy people. It makes sense. Happy people are more productive, get sick less often, and are simply more fun to be around.

The problem lies in the fact that the job search isn't a happy thing. In this economy, it's stressful. For some people, it feels demeaning and is a struggle.

So, how can we be happier (more hireable) job seekers when it's so hard? Check out these five ways you can keep (or insert) positivity into your job search:

Pick a mantra

For those of you not in the know, a mantra is "a sound, syllable, word, or group of words that is considered capable of creating transformation." Sounds good, right? When things get tough, before an important interview, or as you go to bed, recite your mantra. It can be one word, like "capable" or "positive" or it can be a phrase, like "I will get hired" or "I am getting better."

Try out a mantra, even for a week. You might like it.

Get it done now, then take a break

There are three kinds of job seekers in the world: the ones who procrastinate, the ones who work too hard, and the ones who strike the right balance between the two. Whether you're plugging through another cover letter or researching new opportunities, power through it, but then give yourself a break. You need to get it done, but your brain needs a rest afterward, so reward it!

Many job seekers adopt the belief that they aren't worth good things until they get hired. This couldn't be further from the truth. If anything, you're probably working harder in your job search than you'll ever have to at your job, so don't forget about all the things that make you happy.

While you might not be able to blow you credit card at the mall, you can still indulge in the little things that make you happy. Check out the movie you're dying to see, buy yourself your favorite lunch. Keep your spirits up with the things you love.

Stretch

After working hard, doesn't it feel so good to stretch out? It rejuvenates and refreshes every part of your body, from your scalp to your toes. In your job search, give your body a break every once in a while and simply stretch. Exercising and spending time outside are also great ways to relax and destress.

Remember

This tip is a two-parter. First, remember why you want to work in the first place. Sure, you need the money, but you could earn money as a cashier or painting houses too. Why this job? Why this industry? Revisiting your passion for the industry can realign your job search.

Second, remember that, in the grand scheme of things, your career is a tiny speck. Remember your family and friends, the little things that make you happy, and that life is short. Don't get too heavy on yourself about this part of your life. Things will work out.

What do you think?How else can job seekers keep positivity in their job search? Do you agree or disagree with these tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Sean Weinberg is the COO and co-founder of RezScore, a free Web application that reads, analyzes, and grades resumes — instantly. Also the founder of Freedom Resumes, Weinberg has dedicated his career to helping job seekers write the best possible resumes. You can connect with Sean and the RezScore team on Facebook and Twitter